Risk – Anywhere, Anytime

Slips and falls can occur just about anywhere: in an office setting, a school, a factory, a public building or a warehouse – inside and outside. Slips usually occur as a result of too little friction or traction between footwear and the walking surface, or tires and the road in the case of sliding accidents.

Reducing risk of slips, falls and skids in a variety of slick conditions, from outdoors in ice, snow and even wet and/or rainy conditions, to indoor industrial settings, is an integral part of any risk management program. Here are just of few statistics to remind owners of the impacts of these types of accidents:

• Slips and falls are the #2 leading cause of injuries throughout the United States (auto accidents are #1). Nine (9) million slip and fall accidents occur in the U.S. annually. That's about 25,000 accidents a day, accounting for 65% of lost employee workdays and countless injuries to customers/visitors.
   
• Slips and falls are the #1 cause of accidents in Homes and Public Buildings. (70% occur on flat and level surfaces)
   
• Slips and falls are the #2 cause for Workman’s Compensation and Liability claims. (40% of all claims paid out)
   
• The average medical and indemnity cost per slip/fall claim in 2000-2001 was $18,838; in 2002-2003 the average rose to $20,228 (National Safety Council)
   
• The average liability law suit cost is $50,000 to defend, and just over $100,000 in judgments. (OSHA)
   
• Every year, adverse weather conditions contribute to an average of 1.4 million car accidents, 7,000 deaths, more than 800,000 injuries and $42 Billion in economic losses. (NOAA)